A calm sea with a boat anchored near a small island.

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Check prices for these dates

Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
In two weeks
23 Oct - 25 Oct
In one month
6 Nov - 8 Nov
In two months
4 Dec - 6 Dec

Our top choices for Kota Kinabalu hostels

A modern interior with a central spiral slide, seating areas, and a neon sign.

1. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social

TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13 reviews)
"New hotel located in the central of the city. Clean and good vibe. Staffs are very warm and friendly. Definitely will visit again! keep up the good work!"
Malaysia
Kim
The price is AED 263
AED 293 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social
A modern kitchen with wooden countertops, a sink, and bar stools. There are shelves with kitchen items and a plant.

2. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu

Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
2.0 star property
Downtown Kota Kinabalu
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (6 reviews)
"Unique,very beautiful, clean and tidy....nice "
Malaysia
Imran
The price is AED 67
AED 82 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu
A wooden structure with a covered roof and a staircase leading to an upper level.

3. Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel

Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
2.0 star property
Ranau
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (33 reviews)
"Very near to Poring Hot Spring Park. The hosts were very helpful and kind."
Singapore
Seok Lan
The price is AED 99
AED 127 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Kinabalu Poring Vacation Lodge - Hostel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Top Kota Kinabalu Hotel Reviews

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

10/10 Excellent
"We stayed for one week and the room was very comfortable. The breakfast included was worth the extra fee. 24/7 Gym and laundry services available. Infinity pool was relaxing and has a great view of sea. Citadines is a popular meet up spot. We went on two tours and they picked us up right outside our hotel. There is a restaurant, massage spa, burger king, cafe and lemon tea shop in the same building."
Jason 7-night trip
Posted 12 days ago
Citadines Waterfront Kota Kinabalu

Frequently asked questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
Hostels are a great way to stay for a lower cost, so you can save more for fun things to do. We've heard good things about this destination's natural setting, including its island views and natural parks.
What is a hostel?
These dorm-style accommodations come in quite a few forms, but all of them have three main things in common, including low prices, a social setting, and shared rooms (though many have private options too).
What are the best hostels in Kota Kinabalu?
Based on our customers' reviews, these Kota Kinabalu hostels have the best ratings: Signel Hostel - Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a TV in a common area, and multilingual staff. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. Sarang Hostel Kota Kinabalu - Located steps from Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free WiFi and an elevator. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. Escape Backpackers KK - Guests can enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and tour assistance. You'll find towels, showers, and hair dryers in all rooms. TOOJOU Kota Kinabalu - Travel Meets Social - Property features include free WiFi, a restaurant, and a bar. Rooms come with towels, showers, and bed sheets. Capsule Inn - Located within a 20-minute walk of Imago Shopping Mall. Property features include free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk. You'll find towels, hair dryers, and coffee/tea makers in all rooms.
How many hostels can I expect to find in Kota Kinabalu?
If you're in the market for somewhere affordable to stay in Kota Kinabalu, one of Expedia's 16 hostels might be a great option for you.
When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Kota Kinabalu?
The weather is important when you want to venture out and explore, so here are some stats about the local climate: The hottest months are usually May and June with an average temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Kota Kinabalu are January, November, December, and October, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Kota Kinabalu?
In general, Kota Kinabalu is known for its boating opportunities, snorkeling, and marina. Get out into nature with places like Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre, Tanjung Aru Perdana Park, and Sabah Agricultural Park. Cultural attractions include Sabah State Museum and Mari Mari Cultural Village. Locals like to shop at Centre Point and KK Plaza.
What's the best way to get to and around Kota Kinabalu while staying at a hostel?
Keep this information about transit options in and around Kota Kinabalu in your back pocket to make the most of your stay: You can search for flights to the closest airport, which is Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI), located 4 mi (6.5 km) away from the city center. When you're out and about, you may want to make use of public transit. Train stations including Tanjung Aru Station and Putatan Station make it easy to see more of the surrounding area.